Bringing your youngster to a new place can feel big—for both of you. Here’s the good news: with a little prep and the right partner, boarding can be a confidence-boosting “mini-camp” for your pup. Here’s how to set them up for a tail-wagging stay.
1) Start Early (and Keep It Gradual)
Short, positive exposures add up. Introduce new people and safe places, practice brief separations, and help your pup acclimate to a crate by making it a cozy den with treats and toys. Leaving your puppy with a trusted friend or family member for a day or two can also help them adjust to being away from you.
2) Choose the Right Resort (Do a Walk-Through)
Research, read reviews, and visit in person. Seek out sparkling clean play areas, clear safety protocols, friendly staff, and required vaccination records. At Better K9, for example, we encourage meet-and-greets, so you can see the spaces your puppy will enjoy.
3) Confirm Vaccinations & Health
Schedule a quick vet check and bring documentation. To keep our resort a safe and healthy place for dogs, we require vaccinations for rabies and Bordetella. We also highly recommend the canine influenza vaccinations.
4) Pack Familiar Food & Treats
Keep your pup’s tummy happy. Send the same food they eat at home (with measuring instructions) and a few favorite treats. Consistency helps prevent digestive upset and supports immunity.
5) Keep the Home Routine Steady
In the days leading up to drop-off, match your pup’s usual meal, potty, play, and sleep times. Share that routine with our team so we can mirror it on site.
6) Share Special Instructions (In Writing)
Tell us about meds, feeding quirks, toy preferences, training cues, and anything that soothes your pup (a bedtime chew, a phrase, a lullaby—no judgment). Written notes help every caregiver stay consistent.
7) Make Drop-Off Upbeat
Puppies read your vibe. Keep goodbyes calm and cheerful, then let our team take it from there. A confident hand-off and a reassuring “back soon” can help your puppy transition faster.
8) Stay in Touch (We’re Here for Updates)
Want a quick check-in? Most facilities are happy to share how your puppy is doing.
including ours. We’re happy to share how naps, meals, and playtime are going—providing peace of mind for you and a sense of normalcy for your pup.
9) Ask About Structured Playtime
Puppies learn best in well-matched groups. At Better K9, supervised play is grouped by size and temperament, so shy pups and social butterflies each get the right kind of fun.
10) Mirror the Resort Day at Home
Ask about your resort’s daily flow—meals, naps, yard time—and lightly align your schedule the week before, replicating that schedule as much as possible before boarding. Familiar rhythms help to make the first nights a breeze.
11) Book a “Practice Sleepover”
Before a long trip, schedule a one- or two-night trial. Your pup gets familiar with the sights, smells, and routine; you get a preview of how they do away from home.
12) Trust the Pros
It’s normal to feel nervous. Remember: this is what the resort staff does—every day. At Better K9, our trained team provides continuous oversight, daily wellness checks, and gentle redirection to keep experiences positive.
13) Prioritize Socialization (Before and Beyond Boarding)
In the weeks leading up, give your puppy safe, structured chances to meet friendly dogs and people. The more socialized they are, the more relaxed they’ll be in a kennel environment.
Why Choose Better K9 for Puppy Boarding?
At Better K9 Pet Resort in Riverside & Corona, CA, puppies enjoy supervised play on over an acre of space, with caring pros on duty and routines that help them settle in fast.
We offer plenty of perks to help your dog feel right at home:
- 24/7 professional care: Our trained staff watches over guests, day and night.
- Play with purpose: Groups are matched by size and temperament and continuously supervised as they run and explore our spacious yards.
- Engaging activities: From play sessions to rest breaks, each day is tailored to meet your dog’s needs.
- Routine + reassurance: We follow your instructions to the letter and keep you in the loop.
- Two convenient locations: Our Riverside & Corona facilities serve greater Riverside County.
Ready for your puppy’s first “mini-camp”? Call (877) 903-9253 to plan a trial stay or add daycare + puppy training to your reservation for maximum confidence.